South Korea and Taiwan have flown under the radar for many Australian travellers, but we think they are a photographer’s and foodie’s dream.

At just 100,000 square km, South Korea is a small country that is easy to get around, and you can see a lot without spending long days on the road. Seoul is a very modern capital city with a population of around 10 million. While there is much to see and do in Seoul, you need to leave the capital to see this wonderful country; traditional villages, UNESCO temples and Buddha’s, large and small cities, gorgeous countryside with hills full of native trees and rice paddies on what appears to be every spare piece of flat land.

The subtropical island of Taiwan is also small, yet even with its population of 23 million, it doesn’t feel crowded. Taiwan’s indigenous tribes - of which there are ten officially recognised by today’s government - are believed to have Polynesian ancestors, not Chinese. Having been ruled by the Dutch, Han Chinese and Japanese, Taiwan’s culture is an interesting mix. Taipei, the modern, efficient capital, has wonderful food and café culture - if you like your dumplings, you’ve come to the right place! But there is so much more to offer in the way of food. Taiwan is known as the “Beautiful Isle”, and outside of Taipei, you’ll find towering sea cliffs, dramatic gorges, tropical forests and mountains.

If you enjoy scenic views, trying different foods, friendly people, and exploring villages and towns, then grab your camera and join us!